In a bold move to revitalise London’s dining culture, Mayor Sadiq Khan is poised to sidestep local council objections to al fresco dining in Soho. This initiative comes as part of a broader plan aimed at extending outdoor hospitality across the capital, set to take effect in the summer of 2027.
A New Era for Outdoor Dining
Khan’s announcement follows the disheartening news that Westminster Council has resisted applying for a seasonal pedestrianisation scheme, despite Soho’s previous success with outdoor dining during the Covid-19 pandemic. The mayor confirmed that 13 boroughs will share a substantial £500,000 fund designed to enhance outdoor dining and events throughout the warmer months, with a focus on transforming streets into vibrant communal spaces.
“Opening up our streets to al fresco dining and other events should be at the heart of supporting our brilliant hospitality venues,” Khan stated. He believes that the new powers granted by the government will allow him to override council decisions that hinder the expansion of outdoor dining options.
Soho’s Al Fresco Legacy
During the pandemic, Soho thrived as a bustling hub of outdoor activity, reminiscent of European city life, thanks to temporary permits and road closures that allowed restaurants to extend into the street. However, the Soho Society, a local residents’ group, raised concerns about noise and disruption, leading Westminster Council to wind down the successful initiative.
Khan’s commitment to outdoor dining seeks to counteract this resistance. “With new licensing powers coming to the mayor this year, we hope things will be done differently – supporting our amazing venues,” he added. This shift aims to encourage rather than restrict outdoor socialising, fostering a more enjoyable atmosphere for both patrons and local businesses.
Funding for Boroughs
The mayor’s office has earmarked funds for four major outdoor projects across London. Areas such as Barking and Dagenham, Brent, Greenwich, and Lambeth will benefit from enhancements like street markets, performances, and extended trading hours. Notable initiatives include transforming Short Blue Place in Barking into a lively street food market and closing Lower Marsh in Waterloo to traffic every Saturday to create a pedestrian-friendly environment.
In addition to these larger projects, 11 smaller schemes in boroughs like Camden and Lewisham will receive up to £10,000 each to facilitate family-friendly events, food markets, and live performances. These voluntary initiatives, supported by local councils, demonstrate a collaborative effort to reinvigorate the hospitality sector across the city.
The Mayor’s Powers Explained
Khan’s new powers enable him to create a London-wide strategic licensing policy, allowing for a more cohesive approach to outdoor dining regulations. This means he can formally represent the mayor’s interests in local licensing decisions and ensure that strategic decisions align with the goal of promoting outdoor dining.
Kate Nicholls, chair of UKHospitality, praised the initiative, stating, “It’s fantastic to see so many London boroughs taking advantage of the mayor’s summer streets fund. From food markets to World Cup screenings, it showcases the power of hospitality to unite communities.”
Why it Matters
Khan’s plans to enhance outdoor dining in Soho represent more than just a seasonal shift; they signal a pivotal change in how London engages with its vibrant hospitality scene. By prioritising al fresco dining, the mayor aims to not only support local businesses but also to foster a sense of community and joy in the heart of the capital. This initiative could redefine urban living in London, making it a more inviting and lively place for residents and tourists alike, ultimately reshaping the city’s cultural landscape.